Hello Dr Shyam, is a gel-based toothpaste better than other toothpastes available in the market?

Ans: Hello

Please always buy toothpastes and toothbrushes marketed by reputed companies only. Because then you can be assured of some basic quality control.
Please note that most good toothpastes have nearly the same composition. The basic differences between them being colour and flavour. Please do not be carried away with tall claims or gimmicks such as addition of charcoal, clove or cooling crystals.
Ultimately, how healthy your teeth and gums remain will depend upon how regularly and how meticulously you brush your teeth. Not on the brand of toothpaste or toothbrush!
A few hints:
# Toothpastes containing *Fluoride* may reduce incidence of tooth decay.
# A pleasant tasting toothpaste may motivate you to brush regularly.
# Transparent (gel) toothpastes are less abrasive and cause less damage to tooth enamel.

# Toothbrushes with shorter heads (lesser number of bristles) have better access to nooks and crannies and may actually clean better than brushes with more bristles!
If your teeth are misaligned or crooked using a baby brush may help!
# Use *Medium* brushes. If your gums bleed, please consult your dentist. It is a sign your gums are not healthy. Do not automatically switch to Soft or Supersoft brushes.
# Change your brush when it "flowers" (when bristles curl)

Ans: Hello
Please always buy toothpastes and toothbrushes marketed by reputed companies only. Because then you can be assured of some basic quality control.
Please note that most good toothpastes have nearly the same composition. The basic differences between them being colour and flavour. Please do not be carried away with tall claims or gimmicks such as addition of charcoal, clove or cooling crystals.
Ultimately, how healthy your teeth and gums remain will depend upon how regularly and how meticulously you brush your teeth. Not on the brand of toothpaste or toothbrush!
A few hints:
# Toothpastes containing *Fluoride* may reduce incidence of tooth decay.
# A pleasant tasting toothpaste may motivate you to brush regularly.
# Transparent (gel) toothpastes are less abrasive and cause less damage to tooth enamel.

# Toothbrushes with shorter heads (lesser number of bristles) have better access to nooks and crannies and may actually clean better than brushes with more bristles!
If your teeth are misaligned or crooked using a baby brush may help!
# Use *Medium* brushes. If your gums bleed, please consult your dentist. It is a sign your gums are not healthy. Do not automatically switch to Soft or Supersoft brushes.
# Change your brush when it "flowers" (when bristles curl)

Ans: Hello
The toothpaste you mentioned is a desensitizing toothpaste. It helps by forming a chemical barrier over the sensitive dentine, thus reducing the discomfort you feel when you have anything cold, sweet or sour. But it should be used daily for a sufficiently long period (typically a few weeks) to have the desired result.

Ans: Hello
For toddlers and young children, it's essential to choose a toothpaste that is safe and effective for their developing teeth and gums. Here are some recommendations:

1. *Fluoride-free toothpaste* (0-2 years): For infants and toddlers, a fluoride-free toothpaste is recommended. Look for a toothpaste specifically designed for this age group, like "Baby Toothpaste" or "Training Toothpaste". Please note that Fluoride, although extremely beneficial when used locally can lead to fluorosis if accidentally ingested. This is the reason toddlers need to use fluoride-free toothpastes.

2. *Children's toothpaste with low fluoride* (2-6 years): For young children, a toothpaste with a low fluoride concentration (around 500-600 ppm) is suitable. This helps prevent fluorosis (white spots on teeth) while still providing cavity protection.

3. *Gentle ingredients*: Opt for a toothpaste with gentle ingredients, to minimize irritation.

5. *Flavor and texture*: Select a toothpaste with a child-friendly flavor and texture to make brushing teeth a fun experience!

Most popular toothpaste brands offer multiple options for toddlers and young children.
In addition to these there are a few brands specially formulated for children which are ethically promoted (not commercially advertised, but sold through chemists on dentists' prescriptions) You may speak to your child's dentist for specific recommendations.

Remember to always supervise your child while brushing teeth and teach them proper oral hygiene habits from an early age!